Pigment spots
Melasma: treating the patches without irritating the skin
Melasma is a stubborn hyperpigmentation, often triggered by hormones and maintained by the sun. Its management is medical and gradual, and relies as much on preventing recurrence as on treating the patches.
Recognising melasma
Melasma appears as brown patches with irregular, symmetrical borders on the forehead, cheekbones, upper lip or chin. It is common during pregnancy — then called the pregnancy mask — and on hormonal contraception.
It should not be confused with sun spots, post-inflammatory marks after acne, or another pigmented lesion that calls for a dermatological opinion. That distinction determines the whole treatment: it is the first thing the consultation checks.
The treatment protocol
Treatment rests on three inseparable pillars: strict daily sun protection, a prescribed and monitored depigmenting treatment, and treatments carried out at the clinic — suitable peels, sometimes microneedling or mesotherapy depending on the skin type.
Overly aggressive procedures are counterproductive: on melasma, poorly controlled inflammation restarts pigmentation. Sessions are therefore spaced, gradual and reassessed at every stage.
It takes several months. This is said at the first consultation, because regularity matters more than the intensity of the sessions.
Preventing recurrence
Melasma readily comes back as soon as sun protection stops or when a hormonal treatment is resumed. Maintenance is therefore part of the treatment: high-factor sunscreen all year round, including on cloudy days and behind glass, and physical protection in summer.
We review your contraception and your current treatments, because some promote pigmentation. This comprehensive approach is what distinguishes medical care from a simple beauty treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is laser indicated for melasma?
Laser is not the first-line treatment: badly chosen, it can make melasma worse by restarting pigmentation. Management begins with sun protection, depigmenting agents and suitable peels.
How long before I see a difference?
The first changes are usually appreciated after several weeks of regular treatment. Assessment is based on photographs taken at the clinic under the same lighting conditions.
Can I be treated during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Some depigmenting treatments are contraindicated in these situations. The consultation makes it possible to adapt care and, often, to focus first on sun protection.
Book an appointment
Consultation at the clinic, 10 rue Vladimir Kramnik, 92600 Asnières-sur-Seine. For a first appointment, choose “first consultation”.
Book an appointment onThe information on this page is general in nature and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary from one person to another. For aesthetic procedures, a written quote is provided and a cooling-off period is observed.